Strategic Collaborations: UAE Space Industry Partnerships (2020-2025)

The United Arab Emirates has significantly advanced its position in the global space sector between 2020 and 2025 through a robust and strategically diversified partnership ecosystem. These collaborations underscore a dual national objective: fostering ambitious international space exploration and scientific endeavors while simultaneously cultivating domestic capabilities for economic diversification and self-reliance. Key partnerships with leading international space agencies such as NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) have facilitated groundbreaking missions and human spaceflight initiatives. Concurrently, a burgeoning local private sector, exemplified by the formation of Space42 through the merger of Yahsat and Bayanat, has driven innovation in satellite communications and geospatial intelligence. This period has seen a concerted effort to localize advanced manufacturing, develop a skilled national workforce, and stimulate private sector investment, positioning the UAE as a prominent and responsible actor in the global space arena.

1. Introduction: The UAE’s Strategic Vision in Space

The United Arab Emirates’ journey into space exploration is rooted in a long-term strategic vision, evolving from early astronomical interests to a sophisticated national space program. This trajectory has been consistently supported by a commitment to international collaboration and the development of indigenous capabilities.

1.1 Evolution of the UAE Space Sector

The UAE’s engagement with space sciences traces its origins to the 1970s, notably inspired by His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s historic meeting with the NASA team responsible for the Apollo moon landing. This pivotal encounter ignited a national focus on space, which eventually led to the establishment of foundational national entities. Thuraya Communications Company was founded in 1997, followed by Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat) in 2007, marking the initial steps in building a national space industry.

The formalization of the UAE’s national space agenda was solidified with the creation of the UAE Space Agency in 2014. This federal agency was mandated to guide and regulate the burgeoning space sector, ensuring its contribution to the national economy. Since its inception, the Agency has been instrumental in developing and implementing a comprehensive strategic plan in 2015 and launching the National Space Sector Policy in 2016. These foundational documents aimed to foster a robust, sustainable space industry that would significantly benefit the national economy through diversification and the strengthening of specialized local skillsets and advanced scientific and technological capabilities. The regulatory framework was further reinforced by the Federal Law on Regulating The Space Sector, issued in late 2019, and subsequently updated by Federal Decree-Law No. (46) of 2023. These laws are critical in establishing a clear, transparent, and flexible legislative environment designed to stimulate investment and encourage active participation from both the private and academic sectors, while also aligning with international treaties and protecting national interests.

1.2 Strategic Drivers for Partnerships

The UAE’s strategic approach to space is characterized by a deep understanding that international cooperation and domestic capacity building are mutually reinforcing. Partnerships serve as a crucial mechanism for accelerating technological advancement, fostering knowledge transfer, and enhancing global standing. By collaborating with established space powers and nurturing local talent, the UAE aims to reduce dependency on external contractors and build a sustainable, self-reliant space ecosystem.

The nation’s space strategy, including the National Space Strategy 2030 and the Space Investment Promotion Plan, explicitly promotes foreign investment and encourages local investment in the space industry. This approach seeks to diversify the economy, promote a knowledge-based economy, incentivize research and development, and encourage entrepreneurship and the role of SMEs. These strategic drivers underpin the extensive network of partnerships formed over the last five years, aiming to achieve ambitious goals in exploration, satellite technology, and space applications.

2. Key Entities in the UAE Space Industry

The UAE space industry is driven by a synergistic ecosystem comprising governmental bodies, research centers, and private sector companies, each playing a vital role in advancing the nation’s space ambitions.

2.1 Governmental and Semi-Governmental Bodies

• UAE Space Agency (UAESA): Established in 2014, the UAESA is the federal entity responsible for guiding, regulating, and developing the national space sector. It oversees national space programs, formulates policies, and fosters international relations, having signed over 30 significant agreements with major international space sector bodies. The Agency actively promotes investment through initiatives like the Space Economic Zones Program, which supports startups and SMEs.
• Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC): Founded in 2006, MBRSC is a leading scientific and technological hub. It is the incubator of the UAE National Space Programme, focusing on scientific research, innovation, and building a sustainable space sector. MBRSC is responsible for developing and operating Earth observation satellites, including KhalifaSat, and leading ambitious missions like the Emirates Mars Mission and the Emirates Lunar Mission.

2.2 Major Operating Companies

• Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat): Established in 2007, Yahsat is the UAE’s flagship satellite solutions provider. It operates a fleet of five geostationary satellites, providing critical communications across more than 150 countries for consumers, governments, and enterprises. Its services include broadband, broadcasting, backhauling, and mobility solutions. Yahsat has been a key player in developing next-generation telecommunications systems.
• Thuraya Telecommunications Company: A subsidiary of Yahsat since 2018, Thuraya is a mobile satellite services operator that provides reliable direct-to-device voice and data solutions, with a focus on secure communications for governments and maritime services across EMEA and APAC regions.
• Space42: Formed in October 2024 through the strategic merger of Bayanat AI PLC and Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat), Space42 is an AI-powered space technology company with global reach. It consolidates advanced geospatial analytics and satellite communications solutions, aiming to become a regional champion in space technology. This merger represents a significant move towards creating an integrated dual-use satellite communication and Earth observation platform, leveraging AI for enhanced capabilities.
• Strata Manufacturing PJSC: Wholly owned by Mubadala Investment Company, Strata is a leader in advanced manufacturing. While primarily known for aerospace components, it has significantly contributed to space projects, notably in satellite manufacturing, by leveraging its expertise in high-precision engineering and advanced materials.
• Marlan Space is a visionary space venture integrating the space value chain in the UAE through partnerships and joint ventures with startups and established companies. Through its partnerships, Marlan Space aims to deliver space solutions globally from its base in Abu Dhabi.

2.3 Research and Academic Institutions

• Technology Innovation Institute (TII): A key research entity, TII has been increasingly involved in advanced space projects. For instance, it leads the design, development, and testing phases of the lander for the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt, with a commitment to allocating 50% of the project to UAE-based companies.
• Khalifa University of Science and Technology: A prominent academic institution actively involved in space research and education. It houses the Research & Innovation Center for Graphene and 2D Materials (RIC-2D) and the Khalifa University Space Technology and Innovation Lab (KUSTIL), contributing to advanced materials for space applications and satellite development.
• United Arab Emirates University (UAEU): UAEU, particularly its National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC), plays a crucial role in leading and executing national and regional space projects, such as the Arab Satellite 813 Program.
• American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) and New York University (NYU) Abu Dhabi: These universities have collaborated on nanosatellite projects and other space-related educational initiatives, contributing to talent development and research.

3. Partnerships in the UAE Space Industry (2020-2025)

The period between 2020 and 2025 has been marked by a surge in strategic partnerships across various domains of the UAE space industry, reflecting a concerted effort to expand capabilities, foster innovation, and enhance global standing.

3.1 International Cooperation and Exploration Missions

The UAE has prioritized international collaboration to accelerate its space exploration ambitions and contribute to global scientific endeavors.

• Artemis Accords (October 2020): The UAE Space Agency joined NASA and other space agencies as a founding signatory of the Artemis Accords. This multilateral partnership aims to further collaboration on lunar exploration, establishing principles for safe, transparent, and sustainable exploration of outer space. The UAE’s early commitment to these accords highlights its dedication to responsible space governance and its alignment with international best practices. Follow-up workshops, such as the one hosted by the UAE in May 2025, reinforce this commitment by bringing together delegates from over 30 signatory nations to discuss implementation and future approaches for sustainable space operations.
• Lunar Gateway and Astronaut Missions (January 2024): The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) and NASA announced a significant partnership where the UAE will provide a crew and science airlock module, named the “Emirates Airlock,” for NASA’s new lunar “Gateway” space station. This contribution is humanity’s first international outpost to orbit the Moon and paves the way for future crewed journeys to Mars. As part of this agreement, an Emirati astronaut is also slated to join a future Artemis mission, demonstrating the UAE’s growing role in human spaceflight. Thales Alenia Space signed a contract with MBRSC in February 2025 for the design and development of this critical module, emphasizing the international industrial collaboration involved.
• Emirates Mars Mission (Hope Probe) (Launched 2020, Arrived 2021): The UAE became the first Arab nation and fifth country to reach Mars with the Hope Probe. This historic mission, launched from Japan’s Tanegashima Space Centre on a Mitsubishi H-IIA rocket, was a collaborative effort. It involved close partnerships between MBRSC and leading US institutions such as the University of Colorado Boulder, Arizona State University, and the University of California, Berkeley, for spacecraft design and instrument development. The mission, supervised by the UAE Space Agency, provides unique data on the Martian atmosphere and climate, contributing significantly to global scientific understanding.
• Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA) (Agreement January 2025): The UAE Space Agency signed an agreement with the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) to design and develop the lander for the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt. This ambitious 13-year mission, scheduled for launch in 2028, will explore seven asteroids and aims to deepen the understanding of the solar system’s formation. The agreement commits 50% of the project to UAE-based companies, fostering local industrial participation and expertise.
• Deep Space Weather Satellite (Partnership with NASA): The UAE Space Agency unveiled a new mission in partnership with NASA to launch a state-of-the-art satellite designed to study deep space weather. This collaboration combines the UAE’s emerging space capabilities with NASA’s extensive expertise, aiming to provide invaluable insights into solar activities and cosmic events, which are crucial for protecting space-based technology.
• ISS Human Physiology Study (Spring 2025): American space infrastructure developer Axiom Space and UAE-based Burjeel Holdings teamed up to study the effects of microgravity on human physiology. Astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) will use Burjeel’s advanced medical technologies to gather data, potentially informing healthcare innovations both in space and on Earth.
• Arab Satellite 813 Program (Expected Launch June 2025): This project represents the Arab world’s first collaborative space mission, led by the UAE Space Agency and the National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC) at UAE University, in collaboration with engineers and researchers from 11 Arab countries. The 260kg Earth observation satellite aims to bolster regional cooperation and knowledge exchange, focusing on environmental monitoring, resource identification, and land dynamics. Its successful System Integration Review in May 2025 affirmed its readiness for launch aboard a Chinese carrier rocket.
• UAE-Egypt Space Cooperation (April 2025): The UAE Space Agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Egyptian Space Agency to strengthen peaceful space cooperation and develop joint projects. This agreement, signed during the NewSpace Africa conference, further expands regional partnerships in the space sector.
• Khalifa University and European Space Agency (ESA) Zero-Gravity Campaign (May 2025): A joint team from Khalifa University’s Research & Innovation Center for Graphene and 2D Materials (RIC-2D) and the Khalifa University Space Technology and Innovation Lab (KUSTIL) participated in ESA’s 86th Parabolic Flight Campaign. This marks the first zero-gravity collaboration between European institutions and the GCC, testing graphene-enhanced materials for space applications. This partnership with Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and its Centre for Research and Engineering in Space Technologies (CREST) aims to contribute to scientific publications and advance aerospace engineering.
• Khalifa University and NYU Abu Dhabi (Light-1 CubeSat, 2021): The Light-1 CubeSat was a collaborative initiative involving the UAE Space Agency, Bahrain’s National Space Science Agency, Khalifa University, and NYU Abu Dhabi. Launched in December 2021, it represents a significant milestone in space science, technology, and engineering cooperation between the UAE and Bahrain.
• Khalifa University and American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) (MeznSat CubeSat): Students from Khalifa University and AURAK, with support from the UAE Space Agency, developed MeznSat, a mini-satellite designed to study methane and other gases in Earth’s atmosphere.
• Khalifa University and Yahsat (DhabiSat): Khalifa University and Yahsat jointly announced the deployment of DhabiSat into orbit, marking another milestone for the UAE’s student-led satellite development. Khalifa University also incorporates the existing Yahsat Space Lab to train students in satellite design and manufacturing.
• MBRSC and UNOOSA (Payload Hosting Initiative “PHI”): The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and MBRSC launched the Payload Hosting Initiative (PHI) in 2022. This program provides opportunities for entities to host payloads on MBRSC’s 12U spacecraft platform, with MBRSC providing launch and ground station support. The first awardees, announced in September 2022, included the Bahrain Space Agency and Antarikchya Pratisthan Nepal, fostering international collaboration in space utilization.
• Broader International Agreements: Beyond specific missions, the UAE Space Agency has signed over 30 significant agreements with major international space sector bodies, including NASA, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Roscosmos, and the Indian Space Agency. These framework agreements provide opportunities for mutual collaboration in research, education, policy formation, and space sector regulation, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a global player in aerospace.

3.2 Domestic and Private Sector Collaborations

The UAE has made significant strides in fostering a robust domestic space industry, driven by strategic partnerships between government entities and local private companies.

• MBZ-SAT (Launched January 2025): MBZ-SAT, the region’s most advanced satellite, was fully developed by Emirati engineers. Its development involved extensive collaboration between MBRSC and UAE-based entities, with 90% of its mechanical components and a significant portion of its electronic systems sourced locally. Key contributors included Strata, EPI, Rockford Xellerix, HALCON, Falcon, and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA). This project serves as a prime example of how local collaboration can elevate manufacturing capabilities and contribute to a thriving industrial ecosystem, aligning with the UAE’s vision for a diversified knowledge-based economy. Strata, for instance, produced mechanical and flat parts, including high-grade aluminum panels designed to withstand extreme space conditions.

• Space Economic Zones Program: The UAE Space Agency’s Space Economic Zones Program aims to create an attractive and integrated business environment for the space sector. It provides economic incentives and support for startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), enhancing their competitiveness within the national space economy. Participants in this program include Four Earth Intelligence Environmental Consulting LLC, QuantCube Technology, AlienSense, Third Body Dynamics, and Madari Space. This initiative directly supports the localization of advanced industries and empowers the private sector to drive innovation and contribute to the UAE’s non-oil GDP.

• Space42 Formation and Activities (Merger October 2024): The merger of Bayanat and Yahsat to form Space42 in October 2024 created the MENA region’s first AI-powered space technology company. With G42, Mubadala, and International Holding Company (IHC) as key shareholders, Space42 is positioned to drive innovation in geospatial analytics and satellite communications. This consolidation aims to deliver sovereign capabilities with global relevance.

• SAR Satellite Manufacturing Hub (Announced May 2025): The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) announced the launch of the Middle East’s first dedicated commercial Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite manufacturing facility, Space42 Space Systems, in partnership with Space42. This facility will localize the design, assembly, and testing of SAR satellites for Earth Observation (EO), securing independent access to space-based intelligence for Abu Dhabi and creating high-skilled jobs for UAE Nationals.

• Foresight Satellite Constellation (Foresight-1 launched August 2024, Foresight-2 launched January 2025): Space42, in partnership with ICEYE, launched Foresight-1 and Foresight-2, laying the foundation for a scalable Earth Observation constellation. A joint venture between Space42 and ICEYE was formed in December 2024 to manufacture SAR satellites in the UAE, further aligning with the National Space Strategy 2030.
• Thuraya 4-NGS (Launched January 2025): Yahsat commenced construction of Thuraya 4-NGS, the next-generation telecommunications system, in 2020. Built by Airbus for Yahsat, this satellite was successfully launched by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket in January 2025 and is due to enter service in 2025. It will boost secure communications and connectivity across EMEA and APAC regions, reinforcing Yahsat’s leadership in Mobile Satellite Solutions.
• Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5 (Ordered June 2024, Launches 2027/2028): Yahsat ordered two new software-defined telecommunication satellites, Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5, from Airbus Defence & Space in June 2024. These satellites, based on the Airbus Eurostar Neo concept, will offer secure governmental communications over a wide geographical area and support Yahsat’s future direction of providing multi-orbit satellite solutions. Their procurement is backed by a significant 17-year, US$5.1 billion contract with the UAE Government.
• Thuraya’s Diverse Partnerships: Thuraya has engaged in numerous partnerships to enhance its service offerings. These include collaborations with Cobham Satcom for the IP NEO terminal (May 2024), Niflink for telemedicine and eLearning services (March 2024), CYSEC for satellite encryption and cybersecurity solutions (April 2024), Algérie Télécom Satellite as a distributor for the SKYPHONE by Thuraya (April 2024), AnsuR Technologies for advanced video compression solutions (November 2023), and Nybl for AI-powered satellite communications (October 2023). Additionally, Thuraya partnered with Gate for Technologies Co. Ltd (G4T) to boost satellite-enabled connectivity in South Sudan (October 2023) and Cypod Solutions for its CyLock Satcom product (October 2023). In May 2023, Thuraya and eSAT Global announced a satellite IoT breakthrough, and in April 2023, Thuraya entered an agreement to offer the Archon GoSilent Cube Encryption Solution.
• Orbitworks (Marlan Space & Loft Orbital): Orbitworks, a joint venture between Abu Dhabi’s Marlan Space and San Francisco’s Loft Orbital, is set to begin testing its first satellite platform in the UAE in 2025, with plans to produce up to fifty 500-kilogramme satellites annually. This partnership positions the UAE as a regional hub for satellite technology and manufacturing.
• AI Pro and Siemens: Dubai-based company AI Pro, an exhibitor at SATExpo Middle East 2025, partners with Siemens to showcase specialized satellite design and testing solutions. This collaboration aims to support organizations in the MENA region with reliable and advanced tools, accelerating innovation and ensuring components comply with global standards.
• Strata Manufacturing’s Broader Collaborations: Beyond its direct contributions to MBZ-SAT, Strata Manufacturing maintains global partnerships with major aerospace manufacturers like Airbus, Boeing, Pilatus, and Leonardo, manufacturing and exporting a significant volume of aircraft components. In December 2024, Strata, in partnership with Thales, successfully completed the IUP radar antenna panel project. Strata has also diversified into new industries, collaborating with UAE-based SWS Board Technology for high-performance sports products and partnering with SailGP for marine sports components, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and innovation beyond traditional aerospace.
• Space42 and Gatehouse Satcom (May 2025): Space42, in collaboration with Gatehouse Satcom, successfully demonstrated 3GPP-compliant NB-IoT messaging, advancing direct-to-device satellite messaging capabilities.
• Space42 and Viasat (March 2025): The companies announced a partnership to explore shared global 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) initiatives, aiming for a multi-orbit 5G NTN open architecture to enable global direct-to-device (D2D) and mobile satellite services.
• Space42 and Fada/EDGE (May 2025): Space42 signed an MoU with FADA and EDGE to establish a national geospatial ecosystem and unlock downstream applications in surveillance, environmental intelligence, and secure mobility, with a total value exceeding USD 100 million. This collaboration aims to scale the GIQ platform as a digital backbone for real-time, AI-powered geospatial analytics.
• MBRSC and SpaceData (January 2025): MBRSC signed an MoU with SpaceData, a Tokyo-based startup, to develop two key digital twin solutions. For space exploration, SpaceData will create a high-fidelity lunar digital twin platform to enhance mission efficiency and provide immersive training environments for UAE astronauts. For economic initiatives, they will deliver a detailed Earth-based digital twin platform of Dubai’s urban environment to drive tourism and support disaster prediction.

3.3 Academic and Educational Collaborations

Investment in human capital and scientific research is a cornerstone of the UAE’s space strategy, heavily reliant on partnerships with academic institutions.

• UAE Astronaut Program: Astronauts under the UAE Astronaut Program, including HE Dr. Sultan Saif AlNeyadi and Hazzaa AlMansoori, received training alongside NASA astronauts at facilities across the US, including NASA’s Johnson Space Center and SpaceX HQ. Additional Emirati candidates, Mohammad AlMulla and Nora AlMatrooshi, are also undergoing training. This program, supported by NASA, has enabled Emirati astronauts to participate in long-duration missions on the ISS, providing valuable experience and contributing to scientific experiments in microgravity.

• National Space Academy (Launched April 2025): A transformational initiative of the UAE Space Agency, the National Space Academy opened registration for its second cohort of the Space Applications – Earth Observation training program in April 2025. This program is a collaboration with Space42, aiming to develop applied space knowledge among Emirati professionals, researchers, and graduates in remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and space data analysis. It underscores the commitment to preparing a generation of engineers and scientists to lead national space projects.
• Khalifa University’s Research and Education Partnerships: Khalifa University actively collaborates with various international and local partners to advance space-related research and education.

• Its participation in the European Space Agency’s zero-gravity campaign with Université Libre de Bruxelles highlights its focus on advanced materials for space.²²
• The university has collaborated with NYU Abu Dhabi and AURAK on CubeSat projects like Light-1 and MeznSat, demonstrating a commitment to student-led satellite development.
• Khalifa University also partners with Boeing to strengthen human capital in aerospace engineering and has collaborated with the Italian Embassy to host workshops on space collaboration between the UAE and Italy.
• MBRSC also collaborates with UAE universities, including UAEU and Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), for analog studies that simulate space environments.
• Bayanat, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE): Bayanat (now part of Space42) signed an agreement with these ministries to advance scientific efforts in sustainability, indicating a broader governmental commitment to integrating space technology with environmental research and education.

4. Conclusions

The period from 2020 to 2025 has been pivotal for the UAE space industry, characterized by a dynamic and expanding network of partnerships that are strategically aligned with the nation’s long-term vision. The analysis reveals several key trends and their implications:

1. Deepening International Integration: The UAE has solidified its position as a reliable and significant partner in global space exploration. Its foundational role in the Artemis Accords, substantial contributions to NASA’s Lunar Gateway, and collaborative efforts on deep space missions like the Hope Probe and the upcoming Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt demonstrate a commitment to shared scientific discovery and responsible space governance. These partnerships not only facilitate access to cutting-edge technologies and expertise but also elevate the UAE’s diplomatic standing in the global space community.
2. Robust Domestic Industrial Development: A strong emphasis has been placed on localizing space technology manufacturing and services. Projects like MBZ-SAT, with over 90% of its components sourced from UAE-based companies, and the establishment of the SAR satellite manufacturing hub by Space42, highlight a deliberate strategy to build national self-reliance. This approach fosters economic diversification, creates high-skilled jobs, and drives the growth of advanced manufacturing sectors within the UAE.
3. Consolidation and Private Sector Empowerment: The formation of Space42 through the merger of Yahsat and Bayanat represents a strategic consolidation aimed at creating a regional powerhouse in integrated space technology, combining satellite communications with AI-powered geospatial analytics. This move, alongside initiatives like the Space Economic Zones Program, actively encourages and supports the private sector, including startups and SMEs, to innovate and contribute significantly to the space economy. This empowerment is crucial for sustained growth and competitiveness.
4. Investment in Human Capital and Research: The continuous development of a skilled Emirati workforce is a core pillar of the UAE’s space strategy. Partnerships in astronaut training programs, academic collaborations on satellite development (e.g., CubeSats), and the establishment of initiatives like the National Space Academy underscore a long-term investment in STEM education and research. These efforts ensure a pipeline of local talent capable of leading future national and international space projects, reducing dependency on external expertise.
5. Addressing Global Challenges through Space Applications: Many partnerships, particularly in Earth observation and data analytics, are geared towards addressing critical global challenges such as climate change, environmental monitoring, and disaster management. The Arab Satellite 813 Program and the Space Data Center exemplify the UAE’s commitment to leveraging space technology for sustainable development and providing valuable data for scientific and societal benefit.

In essence, the UAE’s space industry partnerships from 2020 to 2025 illustrate a comprehensive and forward-thinking strategy. By balancing ambitious international ventures with robust domestic capacity building and a strong focus on human capital development, the UAE is not merely participating in the global space race but is actively shaping its future, fostering innovation, and contributing to humanity’s collective understanding and utilization of space.

About the Authors

Alex Cresniov – Serial entrepreneur with six years of experience in managing companies, building IT and AI products, and extensive expertise in B2B sales and partnerships. Ten years of teaching experience.

Abdullah I. AlGharrash – Dedicated Saudi aerospace engineer and entrepreneur with extensive experience in the space and jet engines industries. Experienced in collaboration with national and international space organizations, a committed researcher, and a published author in space applications.

Rajeeshwaran Moorthy – MRAeS is a global leader at the intersection of space policy, education, venture strategy, and ecosystem development. He currently leads initiatives spanning four key pillars: (a) research supporting national space policy development, (b) advisory and capacity-building for space technology companies, (c) design of educational frameworks and curricula on the space economy, (d) capital deployment through syndicate-based space fund models. Raj sits on the boards of multiple space tech firms and academic institutions and is a direct investor in early-stage ventures across the sector. He is also in the process of launching dedicated platforms for space analytics and investment strategies. Most recently, Raj was elected a Member of the Royal Aeronautical Society (MRAeS), and was appointed as Guest Faculty at the International Space University (ISU), where he is leading capital raising modules for space ventures.

Rihab Ben Moussa – Legal and policy researcher specializing in international space law, regulatory frameworks, and African space policy initiatives. She serves as an Advisory Board Member at SpaceTech in Gulf, providing strategic recommendations on space regulations in the MENA region. With experience at Tunisia’s National Agency of Frequency, she contributed to the development of the country’s satellite services legal framework. Rihab has led international collaborations as Head of Strategic Relations at the Tunisian Space Association and co-founded initiatives such as the African Working Group on Satellite Connectivity. She holds a Master’s degree in Private Law from the Faculty of Law and Science Policy in Tunis Manar and has co-authored research on AI and space governance. Recognized as an ISA Fellow by the Italian Space Agency, she is actively shaping inclusive and sustainable space policies.

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